McMafia (2018)

Overview

McMafia is a BBC and AMC co-production that hit screens in 2018, standing out as one of the most sophisticated examples of the crime and thriller genre. Inspired by Misha Glenny's book of the same name, the production approaches the world of international organized crime from a London-centered perspective. Shaped by the creative contributions of names like James Watkins and Hossein Amini, the series offers a colder, more corporate depiction of the criminal underworld through its visual direction and atmosphere, distinguishing itself from classic mafia narratives.

James Norton stars as Alex Godman, a member of a Russian-born family living in London, educated in British schools, and trying to distance himself from his family's past. However, as always, the past refuses to let go. While Merab Ninidze, one of the series' key figures, plays Alex's father Dimitri Godman, another notable name in the cast is Martin Hub. As part of the international cast featured in the production, Hub contributes to the series' multinational and multi-layered narrative.

Plot

Alex Godman, the child of a family that emigrated from Russia to England, leads a calm, orderly, and respectable life in London. Educated at Cambridge and pursuing a career in finance, Alex appears to have completely severed ties with his family's criminal connections from the past. However, with the murder of his uncle, the family legacy he has long suppressed once again takes center stage in his life.

While chronicling Alex's gradual descent into the world of organized crime, the series takes viewers on a journey across a vast geography, from London to Moscow, from Tel Aviv to Bombay. Dealing with themes such as money laundering, arms trafficking, drug smuggling, and international power dynamics, the production progresses not through classic action sequences but through strategic moves, diplomatic maneuvers, and psychological power games.

Why Should You Watch It?

The most important feature that sets McMafia apart from other crime series is the realism and intellectual depth in its approach to the subject matter. Instead of armed conflicts or bloody scenes, the series shows how the modern criminal world has become institutionalized and how it is intertwined with global financial systems. This approach conveys the true face of organized crime today to viewers in a more convincing way.

The series is also extremely successful in terms of visual direction. The cold, sterile atmosphere of London and the distinctive textures of cities like Moscow, Tel Aviv, and Bombay are felt in every scene. James Norton's performance skillfully reflects his character's inner conflict and transformation. In addition, the series' music choices and editing style heighten the tension while keeping viewers constantly on edge.

Who Is It Suitable For?

McMafia is ideal for viewers who prefer character-driven, intrigue-filled narratives over fast-paced action series. Those curious about international politics, the world of finance, and the relationships within organized crime will thoroughly enjoy the layered story the series offers. It is also a fitting choice for viewers seeking a slow-burning tension that requires patience but delivers a satisfying payoff in the end.

On the other hand, viewers expecting classic action scenes and fast-paced plots may struggle with the series' more measured structure. For this reason, McMafia appeals more to an adult and patient audience.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. A realistic and in-depth portrayal of organized crime that offers an approach free of clichés.

2. Strong acting performances, led by James Norton, are the series' greatest strength.

3. The multinational filming locations and rich visual language make the atmosphere extremely impressive.

Cons:

1. The slow pace may feel tedious for viewers expecting action-heavy content.

2. The complex character relationships and multiple storylines require careful attention.

Genre and Tone

The series is positioned at the intersection of crime drama and thriller genres. Its tone is generally dark, realistic, and melancholic. Avoiding overly dramatized scenes, the production brings real-life power dynamics and moral gray areas to the forefront. This tone offers viewers an experience that is unsettling yet thought-provoking.

Runtime and Viewing Experience

The series' episodes run for approximately one hour, a length deemed necessary to properly handle the story's layered structure. The viewing experience becomes a process that requires attention but is equally rewarding. Since the connections between episodes are tightly woven, watching them back-to-back will be beneficial for grasping the overall coherence of the story.

Similar Productions

• Ozark

• The Wire

• Peaky Blinders

• Narcos

• The Americans

• Gomorrah

Final Assessment

McMafia stands out as an intellectually rich production that approaches the theme of organized crime from a modern and global perspective. James Norton's impressive performance and the realistic atmosphere the series offers provide viewers with an experience distinct from standard crime dramas. Despite its slow pace, the layered structure of the story and the character development reach a satisfying conclusion for patient viewers. It stands out as a must-watch production for those curious about the corporate and global dimensions of the criminal underworld.